Plastic fragments found in a frozen dog-food product triggered an urgent multi-state recall, officials warn.
A nationwide alert has been issued after Bonnihill Farms recalled its frozen “BeefiBowls” dog food. Several owners reported finding small plastic fragments in their dogs’ bowls, prompting the company to pull more than 300 cases distributed across multiple states. While no illnesses have been confirmed, the FDA warns that ingesting plastic could pose risks for dogs of any size. Pet owners who purchased the affected product are urged to check lot numbers and stop feeding it immediately.
1. Plastic Fragments Sparked the Immediate Recall
The recall began after dog owners reported discovering pieces of plastic mixed in with their pets’ food. These sharp fragments likely came from a broken piece of manufacturing equipment, according to the company’s preliminary review. Because plastic can damage a dog’s mouth or digestive tract, the FDA classified the issue as a potential health hazard.
Bonnihill Farms voluntarily pulled the affected lots to prevent further risk. Although no injuries have been confirmed, the company and regulators say contamination of this type must be taken seriously, especially with frozen or ground products that can mask foreign objects.
2. Over 300 Cases of Food Were Distributed Before the Recall
The recalled BeefiBowls product was shipped to multiple states before the problem was discovered. According to the FDA notice, roughly 300 cases were delivered to independent retailers and online buyers. Because the frozen packages can be stored for long periods, many consumers may still have them in their freezers.
Regulators issued public alerts to ensure that pet owners check their products, even if they bought them weeks earlier. Frozen pet food recalls are less common than dry kibble recalls, which makes this event especially important for owners to notice.
3. The FDA Warned That All Sizes of Dogs Could Be Affected
The FDA stated that any dog—large or small—could potentially be harmed by ingesting plastic fragments. The size of the pieces can vary, and even small amounts may cause internal injury, choking, or digestive blockages. This is why the agency is urging all owners to take the recall seriously, regardless of their dog’s breed or weight.
The concern isn’t just immediate discomfort. Foreign materials can cause complications that aren’t obvious right away. Veterinary experts emphasize monitoring pets closely if they consumed any of the recalled food.
4. No Confirmed Injuries, but Risks Remain Real
So far, neither the FDA nor Bonnihill Farms has documented any confirmed injuries linked to the contaminated batches. That said, recalls often occur early—before widespread issues arise—to prevent potential harm. Food safety experts note that catching contamination at this stage is critical for protecting pets.
Owners who suspect their dogs may have ingested plastic are encouraged to contact their veterinarian. Symptoms like vomiting, drooling, or unusual behavior may indicate irritation or obstruction in the digestive system.
5. Pet Owners Found the Plastic During Normal Feeding
The first reports came from owners who noticed unusual hard pieces in their dogs’ bowls during regular feeding. Because BeefiBowls is a soft frozen product, any foreign material was easy to spot. Their quick reactions helped alert both the company and regulators.
Pet owners often play a major role in identifying early contamination issues. Many recalls begin with consumer complaints, making public vigilance an important part of pet food safety nationwide.
6. The Company Stopped Production to Investigate the Source
Bonnihill Farms temporarily halted production of BeefiBowls as soon as the contamination was confirmed. Their internal review is focused on tracking down the source of the plastic, which early evidence suggests came from a processing tool or packaging component.
Food safety reviews typically examine equipment, preparation surfaces, and packaging lines. By stopping production, the company aims to ensure that future batches meet safety standards before returning to store shelves.
7. Lot Numbers Help Consumers Identify Affected Packages
The FDA recall notice includes specific lot details to help pet owners determine whether their BeefiBowls product is part of the recall. Checking this information is crucial, as unaffected batches are still considered safe.
Lot numbers allow companies to narrow down the exact production windows where problems occurred. This targeted approach prevents unnecessary waste while ensuring that contaminated items are removed quickly.
8. Retailers Have Been Told to Pull Products Immediately
Retailers carrying BeefiBowls were instructed to remove the affected lots as soon as the recall went public. This rapid response helps limit additional sales and protects new customers from unknowingly purchasing the compromised product.
Store-level cooperation is essential in any recall. By clearing shelves quickly, retailers help prevent further cases of accidental exposure, particularly among customers who buy pet food in bulk.
9. Frozen Pet Food Recalls Are Less Common but Still Serious
Most pet food recalls involve dry kibble or canned products, making this frozen-food recall less typical. Still, experts stress that the type of product doesn’t change the seriousness of foreign-object contamination. Frozen items can also mask small hazards that aren’t obvious until thawed.
Because frozen pet foods often appeal to owners seeking “fresh” feeding options, regulators monitor them closely. Ensuring safety across all pet food categories remains a priority for the FDA.
10. Owners Are Encouraged to Report Any Issues to the FDA
The FDA continues to encourage pet owners to file reports if their dogs experience any unusual reactions after eating the recalled product. These reports help regulators monitor the spread and severity of potential issues and determine whether further action is needed.
Consumer feedback is essential for strengthening safety alerts and preventing additional harm. If owners notice symptoms or discover foreign materials, reporting it quickly can protect other pets as well.